ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The Oakland Raiders signed LaMarr Woodley to be a defensive difference-maker. However, it appears the former Pittsburgh Steelers star's season will end prematurely for the winless Raiders.
Oakland interim coach Tony Sparano said Thursday that the biceps injury Woodley suffered against Arizona is "long term" and indicated that Woodley is headed for the injured reserve.
Oakland signed Woodley, 29, to a two-year, $12 million deal over the offseason after he was cut by the Steelers. Woodley has been unproductive as a Raider, with just five tackles in six games.
Oakland defensive coordinator Jason Tarver said the Raiders will miss Woodley's physical presence, but he is looking forward to seeing the younger players get an opportunity.
"It's next man up," Wilson said. "Woodley was a big part of this team, this defense, but we have to step up."
The Raiders will use C.J. Wilson and Benson Mayowa in Woodley's place.
Meanwhile, Sparano said reserve tight end David Ausberry may miss some time with a foot injury, but the team is hopeful the injury isn't long-term.